Unwritten Rules

Crossing A Line

Kierra's POV

Today marked our fourth month and a half of being together, and everything seemed to be going smoothly. The final examination period was upon us, and Mike had been incredibly supportive, giving me the time and encouragement I needed to study. Despite the stress of the exams, his presence was a constant source of strength.

After a long week of relentless studying, the fruits of my hard work were finally harvested. I felt a sense of accomplishment as I handed in my last exam paper, confident in the effort I had put in.

But little did I know, that would be the last week our relationship went smoothly.

It was time for grade consultation for Sir Mike's subject. Everyone was nervous and excited. After looking at their grades, the nervousness melted away, and I saw happiness on my classmates' faces. Sir Mike was very generous in giving grades, recognizing the capabilities of his students and rewarding them accordingly.

Finally, it was my turn. Mike called me to the front to review my grades. They were higher than I expected. I smiled at him, knowing it was the result of my hard work.

Aira, one of my classmates, smirked. "Juliet!" she called out mockingly. "How was your grade? Is it higher than all of ours?" She laughed sarcastically, her friends joining in.

I glanced at Mike, noticing his change in demeanor. He wasn't pleased, but he couldn't openly challenge them. I turned to Aira, my brows furrowed. Why is she like this all of a sudden?

I gave Mike a worried look. Aira's behavior felt more pointed than usual, like she knew something. I couldn't fight back, afraid that something might be unleashed.

"Yes, Aira," I replied cautiously. "It was higher than I expected. Hard work pays off."

"Oh, I'm sure it does," she retorted, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "But it's so convenient when you're dating the professor, isn't it?"

My heart skipped a beat. Was she implying something? "What do you mean?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

Aira's smirk widened. "Oh, come on, Kierra. Don't play dumb. Everyone's noticed how close you and Sir Mike have gotten. It's just interesting how your grades have skyrocketed since then."

My cheeks burned with embarrassment and anger. "That's ridiculous, Aira. I've worked hard for these grades, just like everyone else."

"Sure you have," she said, crossing her arms. "But not everyone else has the luxury of private tutoring sessions with the professor, do they?"

I glanced at Mike, whose expression had grown stern, but he remained silent, watching the exchange closely.

"Aira, you're crossing a line," I warned, my voice shaking with frustration. "We don't have what you're thinking, Aira."

"Oh, really?" she shot back, her eyes narrowing. "Then what is it, Kierra? Because it sure looks like you're getting special treatment."

I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves. "What SirMike and I have is a professional relationship. He's been supportive, just like he is with every student who asks for help. My grades are a result of my hard work, nothing else."

Aira rolled her eyes. "Professional relationship? Sure, Kierra. Keep telling yourself that."

I glanced at Mike, his expression unreadable, but I could see the tension in his jaw. He couldn't intervene without making things worse, and we both knew it.